KIRKUS REVIEW

Self-help for the wounded soul is reflected by the cosmic mirror.

The work of authors Gemmill and Kraus suggests that our life experiences are a valuable reporting mechanism, a tool by which one may confront personal issues: “The core idea of the cosmic mirror is that we unknowingly populate the world around us with our denied inner attributes and struggles.” Petty squabbles, emotionalism and intense dislike of others offer vital clues to unresolved material in the shadow and aura. The shadow is the dark side of the self, a repository of denied urges and feelings, while the aura holds unexpressed talents and qualities. Whatever is repressed is projected onto others. We may react with hypercriticism or blind devotion, yet the enemy and the hero within us require acknowledgment and expression for full realization of the self, according to Gemmill and Kraus. Outing the shadow and aura can lead to a healthier, more expansive and less polarized view. Denial can lead to downfall, as in the case of Eliot Spitzer, whose “illicit behavior was not unlike the crimes of those he prosecuted when he was the New York State Attorney General.” In addition to enhancing self-understanding, the principles presented by the authors can be applied to relations with parents, coworkers and significant others, as well as our perceptions of those in the public eye, be they politicians, athletes, government officials, royalty or celebrities. The authors masterfully develop their thesis and thoroughly support it with personal stories of workshop participants, the writings of poets and philosophers, Native American wisdom, Japanese folklore, pop culture and the seminal work of Carl Jung. Illustrations, diagrams and a glossary facilitate understanding of psychological terms and concepts. Numerous practical and perceptual exercises aid in revealing the inner you. To thine own self be true, thanks to the cosmic mirror.

A beautifully rendered, well-organized and supremely effective guide, full of insights for the ages.

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